Queen Program
The Role of the Queen:
A Voice for Our Industry
Each year, the Texas Watermelon Association (TWA) proudly crowns a new Texas Watermelon Queen at our Annual Convention. She serves as the voice of the Texas watermelon industry, a dynamic Promotional Ambassador who travels across the state and beyond. From Grower Field Days and County Fairs to Supermarket Events, Parades, Festivals, School Visits, and TV Interviews, she champions the sweetness and value of Texas watermelons.
With professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm, the Texas Watermelon Queen educates consumers on the many benefits of watermelons while representing the hard work of our growers, shippers, and industry partners.
At the end of her reign, she competes on the national stage at the National Watermelon Association Convention, vying for the prestigious title of National Watermelon Queen continuing to elevate the industry she represents.
This Year’s Watermelon Queen
Lorelai Hill
“Serving as the 2026 Texas Watermelon Queen is truly one of the greatest honors of my life. Being entrusted to represent an industry rooted in tradition, resilience, and family legacy means more to me than I can put into words.
As a proud Texan studying Political Science, I am passionate about leadership, service, and advocacy. My agricultural background gives me a deep appreciation for the hard work that fuels our farming communities. Agriculture tells a powerful story: perseverance, innovation, and commitment.
Whether I’m visiting growers, speaking at community events, engaging with students, or connecting with families across Texas, my goal is to build genuine relationships and shine a light on the people behind every harvest. I want consumers not only to enjoy Texas watermelons but also to truly understand and appreciate the dedication that brings them from the field to their tables.
As queen, I cherish serving others, celebrating farmers, promoting Texas agriculture, and sharing the sweetness of Texas watermelons across our state. I am grateful for this platform and look forward to the year ahead with family, friends, and community.”
History of the Queen Program
Established in 1966 by the Texas Watermelon Association, the Texas Watermelon Queen program was created to promote the state’s watermelon industry and its growers. Over the years, it has grown into a cherished tradition, with each Queen serving as an ambassador for Texas agriculture.
Sign Up:
For Grocers, Future Applicants, and Industry Members
The Queen Program is our leading promotional initiative to boost watermelon sales and consumption for retailers while supporting the National Watermelon Promotion Board.
The Queen’s Role include:
- Educating consumers about watermelon origins, growing regions, seasonality, proper selection, and storage.
- Promoting watermelon as a nutritious, affordable, and sustainable choice for families.
- Developing future leaders—many former Queens have built successful careers in agriculture and agribusiness.
For Applicants: Candidates should be prepared for a two-year commitment in the event of winning the National Watermelon Queen title.
Eligibility:
- exas Watermelon Queen contestants must be at least 18 years old (and have completed high school) and no more than 24 years of age by April 1st, 2026
- No prior watermelon experience needed.
- Must attend Queen Training in spring.
Benefits for the 2026 Texas Watermelon Queen
- $5,000 Scholarship
- $125 Per Diem for promotions
- $2,000 Wardrobe Allowance
Runner-Up Prizes:
- First Runner-Up: $3,000
- Second Runner-Up: $1,000
The first 10 contestants who submit forms will receive $500 after the pageant to help with expenses.
Entry Deadline: Sunday October 26th, 2025 (Applications available end of July/early August.)
Calendar of Queen Visits/Locations
January
Regional Chapter Conventions, Greenhouse Tours
February
National Watermelon Convention
March
School Visits, National Agriculture Day
April
Texas Fruit and Vegetable Day, Viva Fresh, Queen Training, Cooper River Bridge Run
May
Farm and Packing Shed Tours, HEB Produce Expo
June
Capitol Hill Visits, Various Watermelon Festivals
July
National Watermelon Month
(busiest month for promotions!)
August
Back-to-School Events, Seed Field Days
September
Labor Day Promotions
October
Marine Corps Marathon
November
Texas Watermelon Convention
December
Regional Chapter Conventions, Industry Meetings, Kickoffs
(Grocery store promotions run from May–September)
Maximize Your Impact with a Queen Visit
When the Texas Watermelon Queen visits your operation, it’s more than just an appearance—it’s an opportunity to spotlight your business and engage directly with consumers. Whether you’re a grower, shipper, or industry associate, the Queen supports:
- Grocery store promotions
- Field days for up-and-coming varieties
- Industry meetings
- Educational and advocacy events
Contact for Visit
To schedule a Queen visit or tour